SAR and EFC frequently asked questions

Release date: March 20,
2013

What is the Student Aid Report (SAR)?

The SAR is a summary of the information you entered on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It tells you how much federal student aid you are eligible to receive, and how much the government thinks your family can pay for your school expenses. The SAR also notifies you if you are eligible for a Pell Grant.

You will receive a SAR within 1-3 days after you filed an electronic FAFSA or 2-3 weeks after you filed a paper version. Check immediately for:

Your EFC (on upper right of pg 1)

Any mistakes or errors (pgs 5-8)

What is the Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?

The EFC is the amount your family will be expected to pay based on your economic situation.

How is the EFC calculated?

The U.S. Department of Education uses Federal Methodology (FM) to calculate your aid eligibility. The FM takes into account your family’s income, the number of family members (in college or not), net value of assets and your enrollment status, among other factors. To estimate your EFC, click on the "Expected Family Contribution Calculator” at http://www.finaid.org/calculators.